How to pass on-demand video interview: guide with tips and most common questions
July 2024 ยท 5 min reading
Virtual interviews are a novelty in the field of hiring, so many candidates may be perplexed by it. If you are invited to do an on-demand interview and are not quite sure what to expect, this is a guide for you. It will help you to feel confident and ace on-demand interviews.
What is an on demand interview?
An on-demand interview, also known as an asynchronous video interview or virtual interview, is a screening method where candidates record their responses to pre-set questions. Unlike traditional face-to-face interviews, there's no real-time interaction with an interviewer. You record video responses to interview questions at your convenience.
Why do recruiters use asynchronous video interviews?
It’s important to understand that asynchronous interviews do not replace more familiar live online or offline interviews. They take place in a special stage of the hiring process which is screening. At this stage, recruiters sort out all the responses to the vacancy to make a shortlist of candidates. Their main goal is to determine which candidates are definitely not suitable for the role.
So, on-demand interviews are beneficial for candidates in both ways. If you have any chance to get the job offer, you’ll be invited to the next stage interview. If you are refused, you don’t waste your time in a long-lasting competition for a position that doesn’t suit you.
What to expect with on-demand Interviews
The process of a virtual interview is quite simple and doesn't take much time.
- A recruiter gives you a link to a vacancy page with crucial information about a company and position. On this page, you will also find an application form: a list of questions and an interface to record your answers.
- Prepare answers and make a record for each question. You can watch every record and overwrite it as many times as you want.
- You share final records with the recruiter. After that, you have full control over your application and can remove it.
- The recruiter will respond to you after reviewing your application.
The best part is that the interview doesn’t depend on a recruiter’s schedule. So you can prepare answers without hurry and record them when it’s convenient for you.
How to prepare for a virtual Interview
- Research the company: Recruiters prefer motivated candidates who are familiar with the company and understand the specific role they are applying for. Visit the company website and learn about its mission, values, and recent projects.
- Check your tech: Ensure your internet connection, camera, and microphone are functioning properly.
- Choose a place: Choose a quiet, well-lit location with a neutral background.
- Dress professionally: Your look is a part of the first impressions you are going to make.
- Learn the questions: Asynchronous interviews give you the opportunity to think over the answers before recording. Make sure you understand them well.
General interview questions and how to answer them:
When a recruiter sends you a link to a vacancy, you will see specific questions. Usually, you don’t have to answer them immediately, so you have time to prepare. As this is a screening stage of hiring, it includes generic questions only, which may vary, but aimed to estimate your basic attitude to the job. Here are some examples:
Potential job interview questions
- Tell us about yourself
- Why do you want to work in our company?
- Why do you feel you are the right person for this job?
- Tell us about the most remarkable project you participated in. What was your role?
- Why did you quit your previous job, or why do you want to quit it?
- What is your ideal work environment?
The answers depend heavily on your experience and there is no point in trying to guess what the recruiter wants to hear. It is more important to show your understanding of the position and general skills such as communication and professionalism. There are some general tips on how to ace an interview below. However, if you want to know what recruiters are looking for in answer to specific questions, you may take a look at other articles in the hub: Top 5 General Interview Questions to Ask During On-demand Interviews and 15 Video Interview Questions to Ask and Avoid.
Tips on how to answer interview questions confidently:
- Make a great first impression: Smile, sit up straight, and make eye contact to show you're engaged.
- Practice: Speak clearly and confidently, focusing on getting your thoughts across concisely.
- Show you've done your research: Briefly mention relevant details about the company in your answers to show your interest and knowledge.
- Use the STAR method: This will help structure your answers when describing past experiences. Briefly explain the Situation, Task, Action you took, and the Result.
- Be yourself and be honest: Don't exaggerate your experience. Recruiters value integrity over hard skills.
- Rerecord if necessary: On-demand interviews allow you to overwrite answers if you're not happy with them. Take advantage of it!
Final word
As you can see, during the on demand interview a candidate is in control. He can make an interview recording with comfort and in the place and time of his choice. So, relax, use our tips and you will ace it! Good luck!
